Hello all, I am new here. My PCP broached the subject of bariatric surgery recently. I am pretty interested. Has anyone dealt with this insurance company recently and bariatric surgery? When I called they told me the first step is to do 12 months of a documented weight loss program before anything else related to surgery. Timing wise, I found this a bit discouraging- as I have time intensive goals next september. Anyone have experience going through Horizon NJ Health? Thanks.

Hey the sheet just had numbers on it I have no idea what it meant I'm guessing it was so he knew what to go over with me, but he also seemed like he didn't know what to talk about hopefully next visit will be better if not I may have to see someone who knows a Lil bit more! But he did sit in front of his computer lol!

I feel the same way. I might look into seeing someone else. Though, there is so much information between the forum and the internet. I'll just take matters into my own hands! We can't possibly be the only bariatric patients he's ever had. He's also a pediatric gastroenterologist. I would think he would have a little insight. Sounds like you might have gotten a little more info than I did though. I'm hoping the next appointment is better. When are you going back?

hey everyone...i am stumped. who did you see for your psych evaluation? at this point i am thinking i will have to pay out of pocket for an evaluation and clearance from a psychologist because i cant find one in my area (hudson county nj) that HNJH approves! other than my psych, i have all of my other specialists in place. any suggestions, advice, experiences are welcome! thanks!

i also went back and read everyones updates...i think it's so interesting the way the insurance works. i had my 3rd nutritionist appointment last week and overheard her saying to another patient (we were in group meeting) that because she had HNJH, she had to have 5 visits...then they went on and scheduled her next one. my nutritionist even made an announcement to all horizon patients concerning our nutritionist!!! i think that's crazy other people only have to have 1 visit and we have to have 5. again, im not complaining because the visits are excellent and really do put into perspective how we will be eating for the rest of our lives...they are GREAT preparation for surgery. but it's just so odd that the requirements vary so much by location.

hey everyone...i am stumped. who did you see for your psych evaluation? at this point i am thinking i will have to pay out of pocket for an evaluation and clearance from a psychologist because i cant find one in my area (hudson county nj) that HNJH approves! other than my psych, i have all of my other specialists in place. any suggestions, advice, experiences are welcome! thanks!

I had to pay out of pocket... $300. But that was the only out of pocket expense I have had, so I just sucked it up and put it toward my good cause. HNJH does not cover any mental health care unless you are covered under a specific program.

i also went back and read everyones updates...i think it's so interesting the way the insurance works. i had my 3rd nutritionist appointment last week and overheard her saying to another patient (we were in group meeting) that because she had HNJH, she had to have 5 visits...then they went on and scheduled her next one. my nutritionist even made an announcement to all horizon patients concerning our nutritionist!!! i think that's crazy other people only have to have 1 visit and we have to have 5. again, im not complaining because the visits are excellent and really do put into perspective how we will be eating for the rest of our lives...they are GREAT preparation for surgery. but it's just so odd that the requirements vary so much by location.

My nutritionist wanted to keep seeing me, though I only needed one visit as required by insurance. I suppose my situation is unique because he did absolutely nothing for me. Not even a food pyramid chart! NOTHING! My referral was for up to 6 visits, but I only needed one. I'm pretty sure he's just milking the insurance company and wasting my time. I hope you're in a better situation than I am. Good luck!

Edited May 15, 201412 yr by Ariellestarr

i also went back and read everyones updates...i think it's so interesting the way the insurance works. i had my 3rd nutritionist appointment last week and overheard her saying to another patient (we were in group meeting) that because she had HNJH, she had to have 5 visits...then they went on and scheduled her next one. my nutritionist even made an announcement to all horizon patients concerning our nutritionist!!! i think that's crazy other people only have to have 1 visit and we have to have 5. again, im not complaining because the visits are excellent and really do put into perspective how we will be eating for the rest of our lives...they are GREAT preparation for surgery. but it's just so odd that the requirements vary so much by location.

My nutritionist wanted to keep seeing me, though I only needed one visit as required by insurance. I suppose my situation is unique because he did absolutely nothing for me. Not even a food pyramid chart! NOTHING! My referral was for up to 6 visits, but I only needed one. I'm pretty sure he's just milking the insurance company and wasting my time. I hope you're in a better situation than I am. Good luck!

Hey all. Just curious if anyone has gotten their surgery yet or a date. If so, did the insurance company give you any trouble? How long did it take to get approved?

I have my pre op exam on June 4th, aiming for a surgery date of June 30th!

Dr Balsama is also with Kennedy Bariatric. Has anyone had experience with him?

Dr Balsama is also with Kennedy Bariatric. Has anyone had experience with him?

I am seeing Dr. Neff at Kennedy. I've heard nothing but good things about the surgeons at Kennedy. I believe I read that Dr Balsama does the single incision surgery and was one of the first to do it.

I recently (yesterday) switched to Dr. Neff. I've heard nothing but good things

I recently (yesterday) switched to Dr. Neff. I've heard nothing but good things

Good choice I absolutely adore him. He's so comforting and patient. He will sit with you for an hour and answer every single question you have. Do you have a surgery date yet?

Not even close....my seminar is next wednesday and hopefully get an appointment soon after. Not sure how long the wait time is.

Hello everyone. I'm just starting my journey. I has horizon nj health. I have my first appt with Dr Goldstein 6/13. And the seminar is 6/9.

I'm a little nervous because I'm unsure of the process and how long it will take to get a date

I'm right there with you not knowing....like the requirements. Etc...